What is gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is the overdevelopment of men’s breasts and can affect men of any age. This condition results in excess fat deposits and glandular tissue that resemble the appearance of female breasts. Some men also have excess breast skin.
What causes it?
Fluctuating hormones can lead to overdeveloped breasts in boys going through puberty and men when they reach middle age and older. Some other causes and influences include genetics, certain health conditions, weight gain and the use of certain medications such as anti-anxiety drugs and antibiotics. Steroids are a major cause of gynecomastia due to their heavy hormone concentration.
How do you treat it?
If other medical conditions have been ruled out and other non-surgical treatments considered, you may be a candidate for a breast reduction procedure. This is an outpatient procedure done under either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. If fatty tissue is the problem, the surgeon may use VASERlipo liposuction to remove it. If excess glandular tissue is to blame, the surgeon may cut out that tissue with a scalpel and use liposuction if necessary.
Where are incisions made?
Incisions are made either along the edge of the areola around the nipple or in the underarm area so that the resulting scar can be concealed as much as possible. Excess fat, glandular tissue and skin are removed.
What is recovery like?
You may need a small drain to remove excess fluids after the procedure, and your chest may also be wrapped to keep your skin firmly in place. You should be able to work within 2 or 3 days after the procedures, but you’ll want to avoid strenuous activity for three weeks.
If you have gynecomastia, reduction surgery can help give you back your confidence and boost your self-esteem. To learn more, call our office at 202-785-4187 to schedule a consultation.
